Tue Nov 05 16:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Arizona Voters to Decide on Abortion Rights in Constitutionally-Binding Ballot Measure
**PHOENIX (AP)** – Arizona voters will face a pivotal decision on November 5th, as they determine whether to enshrine the right to abortion in the state constitution. The outcome of this ballot measure could significantly impact access to abortion in the state, which has experienced a rollercoaster of legal and legislative battles surrounding the issue in recent years.
The measure, if passed, would guarantee access to abortion beyond the state’s current 15-week limit, extending to the point of fetal viability. This means that abortions would be allowed beyond 21 weeks of pregnancy in cases where the mother’s life or physical or mental health is at risk.
Advocates for the measure, including the “Arizona for Abortion Access” coalition, argue that it is crucial to protect women’s reproductive rights and prevent a return to the near-total ban imposed by an 1864 law. They have far outpaced their opponents, “It Goes Too Far,” in fundraising efforts.
Opponents, however, argue that the measure is too broad, particularly with regard to its post-viability exemption, which they claim effectively legalizes abortion beyond the point of viability.
The issue has also become intertwined with state legislative races, as both parties vie for control of the narrowly Republican-held legislature. Several Republican lawmakers who voted to repeal the 1864 ban are now facing re-election campaigns, making the issue particularly salient.
Further complicating the situation is a separate ballot measure aimed at changing the retention process for state Superior Court judges and Supreme Court justices. This measure, supported by Republican legislators, was introduced in response to the Supreme Court’s decision to allow enforcement of the 1864 ban. If passed, the measure would remove the requirement for judges and justices to be retained by popular vote, unless triggered by specific circumstances such as felony convictions or bankruptcy.
This change could impact the tenure of two conservative justices, Clint Bolick and Kathryn Hackett King, who were appointed by former Republican Governor Doug Ducey and voted to uphold the 1864 ban. While abortion-rights activists have campaigned for their removal, if the retention measure passes they will retain their positions regardless of the outcome of the retention election.
With strong opinions on both sides, the abortion ballot measure is likely to be a significant factor in the Arizona election, potentially shaping the state’s political landscape for years to come.
First Piper 